Multi-Modality Imaging for Minimally Invasive Surgery

Now Closed

Now Closed

Primary Supervisor: Dr Richard James Colchester

A 4-year PhD studentship is available in the Interventional Device Group in the Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering at UCL. This studentship is led by Dr. Richard Colchester and Prof. Adrien Desjardins and is highly multi-disciplinary with expertise including optics, medical imaging, micro- and nano-fabrication, materials chemistry, and medical device integration. We have a vibrant laboratory atmosphere and close links to clinical and industrial collaborators, with both national and international academic collaborations. As a part of our group and the CDT you will have access to world-leading expertise and equipment, including the Wellcome/EPSRC Centre for Interventional and Surgical Sciences (WEISS). The aim of the PhD project will be to investigate and develop a novel single optical fibre ultrasound imaging device (further details below). Standard EPSRC eligibility criteria apply, please see the EPSRC website for further details. The successful candidate will join the UCL CDT in Intelligent, Integrated Imaging in Healthcare (i4health) and benefit from the activities and events organised by this centre.

Background
Minimally invasive procedures are replacing traditional surgery, but significant improvements in sensor technology are required to realise their full potential. Here, only small incisions are necessary leading to reduced recovery times, costs, and patient discomfort, however, clinicians must rely on imaging to visualise the anatomy and surgical devices. Currently available guidance falls short, providing insufficient visualisation. External imaging, such as X-ray, is deficient in contrast and resolution, whilst internal imaging lacks resolution and molecular specificity, and is often too bulky. An alternative is urgently needed to improve guidance during procedures and enable new applications. All-optical ultrasound, a novel imaging technique which uses light to generate and receive ultrasound, is ideally suited for this. The technology has the potential to provide high resolution imaging from miniaturised devices perfectly suited to minimally invasive applications. Further, the use of optics enables the elegant integration of complementary imaging and therapeutic modalities, enabling multi-modality devices. Realising the potential of this technology would revolutionise healthcare, providing clinicians with a powerful tool across numerous medical fields.

All-optical ultrasound has been established at UCL, with key demonstrations using optical fibres to acquire two- and three-dimensional images, as well as, real-time imaging in vivo, and co-registered ultrasound and photoacoustic imaging. This work builds on this established technology and aims to make revolutionary advances in device design to tackle current problems in cardiology. Extreme device miniaturisation and the integration of complementary imaging and therapeutic modalities will allow novel uses during cardiac procedures and open new clinical avenues. As a part of this work, further clinical collaborations will be sought in areas such as neurovascular imaging and endobronchial imaging to leverage the engineering advances. Key advancements include:

· Developing methods and components to generate and receive ultrasound from a single optical fibre which could enable imaging in previously unreachable locations

· Developing novel image and data processing protocols and algorithms which could improve image resolution and specificity amongst other parameters

· Developing complementary imaging and therapeutic modalities, such as photoacoustic imaging and laser ablation, and integrating them with all-optical ultrasound

· Developing integrated medical devices for key proof-of-concept and translational imaging experiments

This project will involve conducting research in these areas or a related area. The project will combine elements of nano- and micro-fabrication for optical and acoustic components, imaging system design, ultrasound experimentation, developing experimental setups including lasers, ultrasound equipment and other components, designing and performing imaging experiments (both on the bench top and in preclinical environments), and performing computer programming for data handling, data visualisation, and systems control.

Requirements
The project will suit someone wishing to do a PhD with an interest in developing novel miniaturised medical imaging devices. Applicants should have a first degree in Physics, Electronic Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, or a related subject at 2:1 level or above (or equivalent). Existing knowledge in one or more of the following areas of optics, ultrasonics, electronics, imaging, computer programming, and micro-/nano-fabrication would be desirable. Previous research experience is also desirable but not essential. Essential criteria are: capable of creative and critical thinking; in possession of excellent writing and oral communication skills; capable of self-management and good working habits; used to taking initiative; capable of working both independently and collaboratively.

To Apply
To make an application for this project please send a CV and covering letter Dr Richard Colchester richard.colchester@ucl.ac.uk. Your letter should explain how you meet the required EPSRC eligibility criteria, detail your relevant experience, why you wish to apply for this position, why you believe you are a suitable candidate, and your long-term research and professional goals.

Closing Date: 21st June 2020